Mind-Games (Sun Tzu 1:9ff) (John 15:1-17)
On rink, or court, or sheet of ice,
We reckon facts – all very nice,
But mind-games play a role herein,
So if a “Go”, they help us win.Last part of Chapter One, therefore,
Sun Tzu says, “Factor these before
You make your final choice to ‘go’
Or feel attackers’ opening blow.“For mind-games work within, without –
On troops you lead there is no doubt;
If you assess before you leave,
The troops, in you soon will believe.“But if you do not calculate,
As I’ve laid out – participate
In this assessment of the scene,
Your troops will know – set up they’ve been.“So now’s the time to hire and fire
The Generals, who might aspire
To be triumphant in the field,
But without plans they’ll quickly yield.“Then also check their follow-through;
Great plans connect to what you do –
Or they’re for naught – just so much air,
Mind-games or not, once war’s declared.”Right at the end, as Jesus left,
He said, “I chose you, not the rest,
To do the task I’ve given to you;
So think ahead what you will do –“And if you do, your work will stand;
I’ve thought it out, I have it planned;
So stay in touch, like branch to vine –
Together victory’s yours and Mine.”navigation